Orthodontic problems are often unforeseen when you are undergoing treatment. These are commonly referred to as orthodontic emergencies, but they can lead to painful experiences or even derail your progress if they are not dealt with. It is possible to learn how to manage them quickly and properly to avoid unwarranted stress and keep your smile on track.
We will cover the most popular orthodontic emergencies in this guide, how to manage them at home, and when it is necessary to see a professional.
What Will Pass as an Orthodontic Emergency?
All mishaps may not be a big concern, but some issues may demand an immediate solution. Orthodontic emergencies are normally those in which your appliance is causing a lot of pain, hurting the inside of your mouth, or not working as expected. This can be broken bits of your braces, wire jabbing into your cheeks, or even swelling of your gums all of a sudden. With the knowledge on how to distinguish minor and major problems, you will be able to act fast and avoid the delay of your treatment.
Broken Braces: What You Need to Know
Broken braces are one of the most prevalent during the course of orthodontic care. One of the brackets can fall off the tooth because of biting something hard, playing contact sports without a mouthguard, or the bracket is worn out.
If this happens, don’t panic. The fact that a broken bracket is not that much of an emergency, but you still need to make an appointment with your orthodontist to fix it. Meanwhile, do not chew with that part of your mouth, as it may cause more damage.
Loose Wire and How to Deal with It.
A loose wire is also another common problem.
Wires may come out of their correct position, start probing the inside of your cheek or gums, and cause irritation. One can temporarily fix this problem by cautiously pushing the wire into the wire slot again with the eraser side of a pencil or applying orthodontic wax on the sharp end of the wire. It is not always necessary to cut the wire with your own hands, and this may cause additional complications. Go to your orthodontist to get assistance in case of discomfort.
How to Call an Emergency Orthodontist San Antonio
Though minor problems may be solved at home, there are cases when professionals are needed. As an example, in case a wire punctures your cheek or gum and is bleeding, or you are just in extreme pain that cannot be solved with simple adjustments, there is a need to call an orthodontic emergencies San Antonio.
Early intervention keeps your treatment on course and avoids chronic issues. Orthodontists possess the right equipment to fasten your braces without damaging them.
What to Do if a Bracket Breaks
In some cases, a bracket breaks, loosens up, and hangs on the wire or sometimes completely falls away. This may be frustrating, particularly when it occurs at an early stage of your treatment. When you are waiting to see the orthodontist, you should use an orthodontic wax to hold onto the bracket, or otherwise keep it in a safe place in case it has completely fallen off.
Your orthodontist will decide if it is required to be reattached or replaced. Do not attempt to glue the bracket back yourself; it is very likely to cause harm to your tooth enamel or the appliance.
DIY braces fixes: Excusable or Not?
With the internet full of advice, some patients may attempt DIY brace fixes at home. Although it may be viewed as a fast fix, this situation may bring more harm than good. It is unsafe to use household equipment or glues, and this might complicate the treatment.
Final Thoughts
There is no better adventure than orthodontic treatment on the way to a healthier and more confident smile. Be it broken braces, a loose wire, or a broken bracket, the most important thing is to remain calm and call your orthodontist when necessary. Cochran Orthodontics is available to your service in case you need good orthodontic treatment in the city of San Antonio. Our crew offers professional care, loving attention, and timely services to address any emergencies that might be experienced along the orthodontic process.
